Teach Exchange USA
The Teacher Program brings qualified international educators into accredited U.S. primary and secondary schools, where they teach full-time and engage deeply in cultural exchange. Teachers share their traditions, language, and global perspectives with U.S. students; participate in school and community engagement activities; and serve as cultural ambassadors of their home countries.
In turn, educators broaden their professional skills, refine their instructional approaches, and gain firsthand insight into U.S. education and society. They return home with strengthened expertise and meaningful cross‑cultural experience—contributing to more globally connected classrooms and enduring international partnerships.
Program Duration: Up to 3 years, with the possibility of extension to 5 years in accordance with U.S. Department of State regulations.
Eligibility Requirements
In accordance with U.S. Department of State BridgeUSA regulations, all participating educators must:
- Hold a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's in education or in the academic subject to be taught
- Be fully qualified to teach at the primary (including pre-kindergarten) or secondary level in their home country
- Meet the requirements of one of the following options:
- Option 1 –Currently Teaching
- Be actively employed as a teacher in their home country at the time of application, and
- Have at least two years of full-time teaching experience
- Option 2 –Not Currently Teaching
- Within 12 months before or after applying, complete (or be scheduled to complete) an advanced degree beyond the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s in education or in the academic subject to be taught (or a closely related field), and
- Have at least two years of full-time teaching experience completed within the past eight years
- Option 1 –Currently Teaching
- Demonstrate English language proficiency
- Be of good reputation and character
- Intend to return home upon program completion
How Do I Apply?
There are several steps to follow, but Cenet is here for you along the way!
- Confirm Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet the program requirements, such as a qualifying degree, at least two years of teaching experience, English proficiency, and valid teaching credentials in your home country. - Submit Required Documentation
Provide all required materials, such as academic transcripts, degree evaluations, proof of teaching experience, professional references, a CV/resume, a background check, and other supporting documents. - Interview & Secure a School Placement
Participate in sponsor and school interviews. Once selected by a host school, you will receive a full-time teaching offer from an accredited U.S. K–12 institution. - Complete the Visa Process
After your placement is confirmed, receive your DS-2019 Form, pay the SEVIS fee, schedule your embassy appointment, and attend your visa interview. - Attend Orientation & Prepare for Arrival
Complete a required pre-departure orientation and finalize travel and housing arrangements before beginning your cultural exchange experience.
Interested in applying? Contact us today!
Pricing / Fees
- First Year fee: $1950
- Annual Renewal Fee: $900
- Transfer Fee: $250
- Extension Fee: $367
- Insurance: $57/monthly ($171 for the first 3 months)
- Supplemental Insurance: $9/month
- J-2: $250 per person/per year
- J-2 Insurance: $57/monthly
- SEVIS Fee: $220 (or $240 if paid by Cenet)
- Non-immigrant Visa Fee: $185
What to expect
Participating teachers serve as full-time educators, meeting all state and district requirements while enriching U.S. classrooms with their expertise. Beyond teaching, they act as cultural ambassadors, sharing traditions, language, and global perspectives with students, colleagues, and the broader community through meaningful exchange.
Ready to embark on a new adventure?
Resources
The BridgeUSA J-1 Teacher Exchange Program brings highly qualified international educators to accredited U.S. primary and secondary schools for temporary, full-time teaching assignments. Participating schools gain skilled teachers who enrich classrooms with global perspectives and meaningful cultural exchange.
Host Requirements
- Be an accredited primary or secondary school
- Offer a full-time teaching position of at least 32 hours per week
- For pre-K placements, assign teachers only to language-immersion instruction
How Do I Become a Host?
- Contact Cenet to confirm eligibility
- Complete a Host District/School Application outlining your needs
- Schedule a call with us to review program details, learn more about your institution, and answer any questions you may have.
Contact us to get started!
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Why Cenet
Cenet opens doors to life-changing cultural exchange experiences. Whether this is your first time traveling abroad or you are a returning program participant, Cenet will ensure you are supported while having a fun and rewarding journey.
